Hike With Chris!: #27 - Mt. San Jacinto via Marion Mountain

09/08/2018

San Jacinto Wilderness, California

Crazy to think I have never hiked Mt. San Jacinto before. Out of all the peaks I've climbed, this one has one of the most unique views I have ever seen at any summit. I can't think of any other peak that shows the valley floor nearly 10,834' straight down. It really makes your heart sink to your stomach when you look. What a fun trip though. I had the opportunity to reunite with my good college friend, Melissa!

Mt. San Jacinto via Marion Mountain is the perfect alternative to skip the crowds at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (and fees). You will need a wilderness day permit that you can fill out 24/7 at the San Jacinto Ranger Station (or anywhere else servicing the San Jacinto area). Overnight permits will need to be applied for via mail or in person at the ranger station. After filling out your permit at the San Jacinto Ranger Station, drive a short distance to the trailhead where parking is extremely limited. Be considerate when parking and try to leave as much space as possible for others to park.

This trail can be a little confusing so here are the waypoints that I used.

Marion Mountain Trailhead
Little Round Valley Campground
[JCT] Saddle Junction
Stone Hut
San Jacinto Peak

Distance: ~12 miles (Out-and-Back)

Elevation Gain: 4,468 ft.

Final Elevation: 10,834 ft.

Directions to the Trailhead: Use the following coordinates in Google Maps to route your directions to the trailhead and parking lot.

33.791176, -116.735417

Wilderness permit application (self-service).

Parking lot and the beginning of the trailhead. We got here around 7am.

Following the signs. Pretty nice and steady uphill.

Lots of cool boulders here. Didn't think I'd see some chalked up boulders on this trail. Most of the classics I am more familiar with are closer to the tramway.